Enjoy Terrific Nunavut Camping at Quttinirpaaq National Park

Quttinirpaaq National Park is the second most northerly park on Earth and in Inuktitut Quttinirpaaq means ”top of the world.” Established in 1988 as a reserve, it became a national park in 1999. Covering more than 14,500 square miles, it is the second largest park in Canada after Wood Buffalo National Park. Sparse vegetation and harsh conditions makes this area barren and few animals call it home, although Arctic hare, Peary caribou and muskoxen can be found throughout the park, but only in small sustainable numbers. Most of the limited plant and animal life can be found in the Lake Hazen area since it is more sheltered and has milder conditions. Quttinirpaaq National Park is a polar desert and most of the land is a vestige of the last Ice Age, making it a wonderfully rugged and isolated Nunavut camping destination!

Snow is a constant feature in the park, and instead of melting in summer, the snow compacts into ice or melts and cascades down glaciers into the Arctic Ocean. Winters are long, cold and harsh. Summers are one endless day where nights are as bright as days. Snow is a constant factor and never fully melts. There is a CA$12 daily fee per person. The park is open year round with summer being the more popular time to visit.

Quttinirpaaq National Park is a rugged and remote park that offers a variety of wilderness experiences. There are wonderful hiking opportunities, but no established trails. Hikers should be experienced and prepared for harsh and remote terrains. Skiing, snowmobiling and dogsledding are popular ways to get around the park. Mountaineering and steep climbs are available throughout the park. Experienced hikers with proper equipment can travel across glaciers and explore crevasses and icefalls. Quttinirpaaq National Park is best left to experienced outdoorsmen prepared for extreme cold, harsh conditions and nearly complete solitude. Visitors must be able to be completely self-sufficient, including being able to handle any possible emergencies. Help is not close in this extreme park. For the hardy and adventurous types, Quttinirpaaq National Park is an amazing and unforgettable Nunavut camping destination!